Monthly Archive: July 2018

Indulging in alcoholic substances of all types has been a favorite vice throughout human history and valued for its capacity to interrupt neurotransmitters and disrupt regular brain activity. These effects gradually take the sober person through the various stages of intoxication as the BAC level rises.

It is essential to remember that the amounts of alcoholic beverages or edibles required to take a person from stage one intoxication (sobriety) to stage 4 intoxication (confusion) and their associated BACs may differ greatly from individual to individual. The same person may notice great difference in their tolerance to alcohol depending on factors including level of exhaustion, physical conditions and dietary habits.

The University of Oklahoma’s Department of Medicine has created a practical chart that illustrates the stages of intoxication alongside their symptomatic behavioral changes and BAC levels. The first four stages are as follow:

By the time drinking results in a state of stupor, blood poisoning has already begun. BAC levels of 0.25 to 0.40 indicate that the blood is no longer metabolizing the alcohol content and the toxins are beginning to take a stronger hold on the body.

Some of the symptoms of being in the state of stupor include:

-Incapacity to respond to external stimuli
-Strong inclination to sit or lie down until passing out
-Lack of control over body functions; incontinence and vomiting are common
-Incapacity to stand or walk without support

Medical attention is required at this stage of intoxication as there is a risk of fatality. Many times the intoxicated individual will pass out in a position leaving them susceptible to asphyxiation or choking on vomit. Regular respiration and responsive reflexes, such as the gag reflex, are greatly impaired.…